A 20-year-old man from Western Australia is scheduled to appear in Perth Magistrates Court today following the discovery of knuckle dusters in his baggage at Perth Airport. The incident occurred last month when the man was set to travel from Perth to Exmouth and the metal weapon was reportedly identified during the security screening process.
Officers from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) confiscated the knuckle dusters and interrogated the individual, subsequently issuing him a summons for possessing a prohibited weapon. This offence carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison or a $60,000 fine.
AFP Superintendent Peter Hatch emphasised the importance of rigorous security protocols at Perth Airport, stating that they collaborate closely with airport partners to protect the safety of all travellers. He reaffirmed that the airport maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards anyone attempting to bring prohibited items onboard aircraft.
During this incident, the coordinated efforts of the airport security personnel and the AFP were pivotal in averting a possible threat to passengers and airport staff. Superintendent Hatch reiterated that carrying knuckle dusters, as well as other prohibited items, in public spaces, including airports and aircraft, is a criminal offence.